HD-SDI - Test equipment

[dankind]

So, HD-SDI/HD-xVI is now (has been for a while) on the lips of customers desiring higher resolution video security from an existing coaxial transport. There are enterprise grade testing solutions available of course, however i am seeking to hear whether any member has experience with 'lower cost' testing solutions. Ideally, a site visit permits a technician to connect a HD-SDI signal generator at the existing analog camera location, and connect a HD-SDI test monitor (equipment/measurement device) at the other end and has a 'fair' idea of the ability of the coax cable to support HD-SDI.

Any experience? - not ultimately interested in how far someone got it to run, or what cable types worked - more how a simple diagnostic/electrical test can provide data on the condition of the coaxial for this particular standard.

Thanks!

[Clay Turner]

So, HD-SDI/HD-xVI is now (has been for a while) on the lips of customers desiring higher resolution video security from an existing coaxial transport. There are enterprise grade testing solutions available of course, however i am seeking to hear whether any member has experience with 'lower cost' testing solutions. Ideally, a site visit permits a technician to connect a HD-SDI signal generator at the existing analog camera location, and connect a HD-SDI test monitor (equipment/measurement device) at the other end and has a 'fair' idea of the ability of the coax cable to support HD-SDI.

Any experience? - not ultimately interested in how far someone got it to run, or what cable types worked - more how a simple diagnostic/electrical test can provide data on the condition of the coaxial for this particular standard.

Thanks!

SDI is fussier about cable, TVI less so, and AHD is the least fussy. Having used all three at some stage, I'd also rate them in that order, but SDI looks to have lost the battle of the HDs much like betamax (even though it was far better) lost out to VHS. CVI will also likely lose out too.